As part of Finance Policy Theme work in 2017, LGiU is producing a series of guides on a variety of topics connected to local government finance and promoting local economic growth.

As councils face challenging financial circumstances and a new funding environment with 100% Business Rate Retention, new and innovative ways of approaching finance are needed. Many councils are already making use of mechanisms like crowdfunding, social impact bonds, and exploring ways of working with Local Enterprise Partnerships, attracting inward investment and commercialising council services.

To give those working in local authorities ideas and explanations of the options they might consider for the future, we will be releasing guides introducing these concepts, giving tips and signposting to others who have already tried the concepts.